Year-Round Sprouting Guide
Nutrient-dense microgreens from your home
Indoor seed sprouting —also called “sprouting”— allows the quick production of nutrient-dense microgreens in small spaces without relying on the season. In winter, when the outdoor garden slows down, sprouts provide vitamins (C, K, B-complex), digestive enzymes, and phytonutrients that boost the family diet.
1Seed Selection
Rich in protective phytoestrogens
Concentrated source of antioxidant sulforaphane
High protein content (≈ 26%)
2Container Preparation
| Option | Features | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sprouting tray | Large surface and bottom drainage | Ideal for rotating multiple batches |
| Glass jar with mesh lid | Economical, takes up little space | Tilt the jar at a 45° angle |
| Hydroponic mat | Hemp or coconut fibers | Useful for delicate sprouts |
3Sprouting Process
Initial Rinse
Place seeds in a fine strainer and rinse under running water
Soaking Time
Small seeds: 4-6h
Legumes: 8-12h
Optimal Temperature
18-22°C. In winter, near a south window or thermal blanket
Regular Watering
Rinse and drain 2-3 times/day
4Sprouting Times
🌿 Alfalfa
5-6 days
Length: 3-4 cm
🥦 Broccoli
4-5 days
Length: 2-3 cm
🌶️ Radish
3-4 days
Length: 3 cm
🫘 Lentil
2-3 days
Root: 1 cm
5Annual Sprouting Calendar
Winter
Alfalfa, lentil, clover
Tolerate low light and moderate temperature
Spring
Radish, broccoli, fenugreek
Spicy sprouts; fast germination
Summer
Sunflower, mung, basil
More ventilation to avoid mold
Autumn
Buckwheat, pea, mustard
Balance of protein and chlorophyll
6Comparative Methods
| Method | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Sprouting trays | High yield; good aeration | Higher seed and water usage |
| Jars with mesh | Economical; perfect for beginners | Risk of compaction |
| Hydroponic kits | Automated watering; longer microgreens | High initial cost |
🌱 Start Your Sprouting Journey!
Sprouting requires few inputs, completes in less than a week, and provides a steady supply of micronutrients even in midwinter.
Question to dive deeper: What seed combination would you like to explore first to diversify flavors and nutrients on your table this winter?
Recommended Products
HAMAMA Microgreens Growing Kit with Bamboo Frame – Self-Watering Tray + Broccoli Seeds
View on Amazon
Sources
- Penn State Extension – “What You Should Know About Sprouts”: provides information on the nutritional value of sprouts and safety recommendations.
- West Virginia University Extension – “Grow This: Microgreens”: explains the difference between sprouts and microgreens and emphasizes hygiene importance.
- University of Maryland Extension – “Mighty Microgreens”: describes how microgreens can contain many more vitamins than their mature counterparts.
- WebMD – “Health Benefits of Alfalfa”: provides data on the vitamin and mineral content of alfalfa sprouts.
- Healthline – “Alfalfa: Benefits, Nutrition Facts & Side Effects”: offers a summary of the nutrients found in alfalfa sprouts.
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